A Jeep Wrangler was something I’ve wanted for a very long time. But since our hatred for debt overruled all else, I was very patient and waited until it was a good financial decision for us. Many people commented that I should just go buy one, but I was adamant that I was going to have a paid for Jeep parked in my paid off garage.
I drove many older vehicles for quite a while. I had a few Jeep Cherokees that I really loved. Then I switched to a 1999 Toyota 4Runner and drove that for five years. As rusty and crappy as it looked, I loved that truck. I was sad when the framed rusted out and we had rear end issues with it.
Once we paid off the house in 2017, our next purchase was my Jeep. We went and looked at a few but ended up buying from a trusted family friend around Memorial Day.
It’s a black 2006 65th Edition TJ Wrangler. I love it! It’s been very well taken care of and in very good shape. It had 93,000 miles when we bought it. We put an aftermarket bumper and Warn winch on it, otherwise didn’t have to do anything else. It’s at 98,000+ miles now and we’ve enjoyed every muddy, rock filled adventurous mile we’ve put on.
Deciding to take it along on this trip was a great decision. Except for having to haul the big enclosed trailer which is sometimes inconvenient, we have utilized the Jeep for quick runs to town and on extended day trips exploring roads less traveled.
View at the end of Craigie Creek Road
The roads less traveled are fun and I’m learning to be a better driver. I hesitate sometimes when I fear my nice Jeep is going to get road rash or filled with water. Craig does a good job talking me through it although sometimes I know it’s just because he wants to go further down the trail.
I love that the Jeep is our family vehicle. We hoist Gus in the back and he’s completely comfortable rolling around while we four-wheel or snoozes while we’re in a brewery. It’s treated us well so far and I’m excited to take it so many more places.
